ADHD Treatment For Adults
NIMH recommends that individuals who believe they may have ADHD speak with their healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation can determine if the symptoms are due to stress, mental health issues, or physical illnesses.
Medicines are usually the first option for treating ADHD. There are stimulants and nonstimulants available to treat this condition.
Medicines
Many mental illnesses mimic ADHD symptoms for adults and children. These include anxiety disorders as well as mood disorders and adjustment disorders. Chronic stress can also cause symptoms similar to ADHD. When evaluating an adult who has symptoms that resemble those of ADHD, it's important to consider these possibilities. After a proper diagnosis medication is usually prescribed as a treatment.
The most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD is stimulant medication. These drugs can improve ADHD symptoms, but they are not the only treatment option for patients suffering from this condition. These medications should only be used after other treatments have been tried and should not be used in place of or as a substitute for behavioral therapy.
There are two major types of stimulant medicines. Methylphenidate (also known as methylphenidate) and dextroamphetamine (also known as dextroamphetamine) are the two most frequently used drugs for treating ADHD in adults. Both have been in use for quite a while and have been extensively researched. They are available in various forms including tablets, liquids and even a skin patch. Adderall is the most well-known brand. Stimulants boost the activity of neurotransmitters inside the brain. They are effective in treating most people with ADHD however, they can also cause side effects like tachycardia or high blood pressure. They are not advised in certain medical conditions, like Tourette syndrome and severe anorexia.
Nonstimulant medications are also prescribed to certain individuals suffering from ADHD. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera (Strattera), and viloxazine, are selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They do not have the same abuse potential as stimulants. They don't perform as fast as stimulants, however they can provide significant improvements in ADHD symptoms for some adults.
The medications can reduce depression and anxiety in addition to the severity of ADHD symptoms. This is especially beneficial for individuals with co-occurring ADHD and depression.
It is essential to keep seeing a doctor regularly to check the body's reactions to the medication and to ensure that it is working effectively. Initial appointments should occur every 30 days. After that, appointments should be every month until a steady dosage is reached, then every three months thereafter.
Counseling
Psychotherapy is an important treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. Doctors often send people suffering from ADHD to psychotherapists who specialize in the disorder. There are studies that suggest that psychotherapy is more effective than medication to treat ADHD symptoms in adults. However an extensive medical history must be conducted to determine the most effective treatment options. Many medical conditions, including seizures (petit mal) thyroid problems, lead poisoning, and other nutritional deficiencies, and sleep apnea, may cause symptoms and signs that resemble those of ADHD. In addition, substance use disorders and certain medications can cause symptoms similar to those of ADHD.
Most ADHD treatments involve medication, and stimulant medications are the most frequently used. Methylphenidate is a central nervous system stimulant that increases the activity of brain areas that regulate the flow of attention and impulses. It is available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets that provide a longer release of the drug throughout the day. They aren't considered addictive and have no potential to cause addiction, but they can produce side effects, which is why it is important to consult a doctor before starting them and to let the GP be aware if you have any.
Psychotherapy is very helpful in treating a variety of ADHD-related disorders, such as ineffective time management and organizational skills as well as impulsivity and social issues, academic failures and difficulties maintaining relationships. Some studies suggest that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is more effective than other types of psychotherapy for treating symptoms of ADHD for adults.
It's important to remember that every psychotherapy method should include some aspect of education or training that will deal with the specific issues those with ADHD confront, such as problems with memory and learning as well as poor organisational abilities and a tendency lose things. There is also increasing evidence that shows a link between certain physical ailments such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), as well as neurodiverse mental disorders like ADHD and Tourettes.
Metacognitive therapy is a CBT method that is extremely effective in improving the functioning of people suffering from ADHD. It assists patients in developing strategies to improve their organization skills, develop a plan of action and overcome thinking distortions that can lead to negative moods or self-defeating thoughts. Stevenson and colleagues have created a group-based CBT program for adults with ADHD which was found to be very effective in improving their behavioral symptoms and cognitive functioning (Stevenson et al 2002). Rostain along with colleagues, assessed the efficacy of a treatment that included simultaneous treatment with pharmacotherapy and CBT for 43 adults suffering from ADHD. They reported improvements in both ADHD and anxiety or depression comorbidity (Rostain and coworkers, 2006).
Lifestyle Changes
Most often the most effective treatment for ADHD is through lifestyle adjustments. For instance, getting enough sleep and a balanced diet can help reduce symptoms. inattentive adhd treatment adults can help reduce hyperactivity, but it is important to find an activity you enjoy and will be committed to. Stress and anxiety can be lowered by using relaxation techniques.
The organization of your workspace can keep you focused and on track with deadlines. You should consider setting aside time every day to organize your documents and items. Use folders and dividers to separate documents. Make sure to label and color-code your folders to ensure you can find the items you require quickly.
Adults suffering from ADHD frequently struggle with procrastination and organization, which can interfere with their ability to complete tasks on time. Try putting reminders in your calendar and setting alarms on your phone to help meet deadlines.
Insufficient planning and organizational skills can lead to issues at home, school and at work. Adult ADHD treatment requires these skills be developed. Many adults with ADHD struggle to stay focused at work, which can impact their productivity and result in embarrassment or frustration.
Adults taking medication for ADHD can aid in improving concentration and boost self-esteem. It is essential to inform your doctor about any other medications you are taking, since some of them may interact with stimulants. The NIMH Fact Sheet on Medications for ADD/ADHD offers more details about the drugs that treat this condition.
Although there aren't any foods that cure ADHD, avoiding sugary and artificial additives can help manage symptoms by promoting brain health. A well-balanced diet that is rich in whole grains and proteins, vegetables and fruits can help to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Inadequate sleep can lead to anxiety and a lack of concentration. Additionally sleep deprivation increases the risk of depression and mood disorders. It is therefore essential to establish a regular sleeping routine and to practice relaxation techniques before going to bed.
People suffering from ADHD might find it difficult to make long-term lifestyle adjustments. To motivate your patients to adhere to their treatment plans you could offer them rewards for achieving specific goals. For instance, offering a Hershey Kiss after 10 trips to the gym can be a great incentive for some individuals.
Accommodations
If someone needs accommodations to manage the issue, they employ tools or modifications to their environment to manage the symptoms. If you are short or have a disability, you might require a step stool in order to access the items on the shelves of the store. Also, a person suffering from ADHD may need to use accommodations to ensure they succeed at work or school.
Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from a variety of counseling methods such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). CBT involves working with a therapist in order to modify negative behavior and replace them with positive ones. It can also assist adults to improve their organizational skills and devise strategies to manage stress.
People suffering from ADHD often find satisfaction in their careers as well as in relationships with their loved ones. However, they may face challenges with everyday tasks, such as paying for bills and keeping the house in good condition. A health care provider or mental health professional can assist an adult in determining whether they suffer from ADHD by conducting a thorough examination that includes psychological testing as well as a review of the person's childhood behavior and experiences.
The evaluation will usually include an interview with the patient parents, the patient, and other family members. A health care practitioner or mental health professional may also request that the person complete standard ADHD symptoms rating scales or an assessment questionnaire. They might also conduct psychological tests to look at the person's spatial and visual thinking, reasoning and executive functioning capabilities.
A comprehensive evaluation may also include an examination of medical records and a determination of if there are any underlying issues which could cause ADHD. These could include depression, anxiety and learning disabilities, as well as substance abuse. People who suffer from ADHD are more likely to suffer from other medical conditions therefore a thorough evaluation is important.
In most instances, a stimulant medicine is prescribed to treat the symptoms of ADHD. Stimulants are a controlled substance and must be monitored closely by a medical professional. They can cause side effects, like difficulty sleeping and addiction. Certain people with ADHD are having a hard time taking the medication for a long time because they don't experience any symptoms improving.